When Jesus proclaims himself to be the “bread of life” in the gospel of John, he sets himself apart from some of the daily fare we encounter. How often do we feed on mistrust, on the fears we so easily manufacture, on the titillation of being voyeurs in a violent world? Rev. Kent in his sermon reminded us that seeking after things that do not satisfy will not sustain us as we face a world fraught with difficulties and despairs. We cannot feed on greed, on regret or hatred and expect to transform the world with love. We might be surrounded by those things but we don’t have to take them in. Rather to take in all that gives life is to strengthen ourselves for the task of being the witness and beacon of hope in a hurting world. Here is the prayer that followed the sermon, delivered so beautifully by our lay leader, Joy Frazier.
Consumed with fears within and without, we come to sit at your welcome table. We come looking for bread to sustain us in struggles that can seem too great to endure. As Jesus taught us, give us this day our daily bread. Feed us, even in the presence of calamity, with grace. Feed us, even when we sit in darkness, with all that nourishes the light. As the dishes pass, help us choose all that will keep and heal us; all that will keep and heal your world. We feast in your love, Lord of plenty. By what we take in at every table, may we know your strength and offer your hope. Amen. –Rev. Kent H. Gilbert
May your table be set with all manner of graces this day and all week. You can watch the complete service below:
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